Lumino by Thomas Badar

Created by: Thomas Badar

Lumino by Thomas Badar is a high-impact close-up and parlor magic trick that simulates an incredible feat of memory. From the spectator's perspective, the magician allows a deck of cards to be thoroughly shuffled by a volunteer. In just seconds, the performer appears to memorize the entire deck, then flawlessly identifies whether each card is red or black, often culminating in a climax where a dealt card is revealed as the spectator's chosen selection. This effect, which can be performed without a table and with the deck fully examinable, creates the illusion of superhuman mental ability, making it ideal for mentalism-style performances. Buyers should note that Lumino involves a unique, auto-resetting method that requires minimal practice (around 20-30 minutes) and is available in different deck colors like red and blue, with some versions incorporating luminous or LED elements for visual appeal in low-light settings.

Key features

Auto-resetting for repeated performances
No sleight of-hand or preshow work required
Deck can be shuffled by the spectator
Suitable for walk-around, close-up, or parlor conditions
Easy to master with minimal practice time
Available in multiple color variants (e.g., red, blue)

Pros

Highly visual and baffling effect that leaves a strong impression
Practical for professional use due to quick reset
Accessible to magicians of all skill levels
Builds reputation as a powerful mentalism piece
Spectator-handled deck adds to the impossibility

Cons

May rely on a specific gimmick or prop that could wear out over time
Limited to card-based effects, potentially less versatile for some acts
Higher demand may lead to availability issues, as seen at conventions

Effect

Lumino presents as a powerful feat of memory. A spectator shuffles a deck of cards. The performer takes the deck and, in about ten seconds, appears to memorize the order of every card. The performer then proceeds to correctly identify whether each card is red or black without looking at the faces. The effect culminates in a surprising climax where a dealt card is revealed to be the spectator's chosen card. The entire routine is performed without the magician needing to touch or see the cards during the identification process.

Full details

Lumino is a card magic effect created by Thomas Badar. It is designed to be a hands-off routine from the spectator's perspective. The spectator can handle and shuffle the deck freely. No table is required for the performance. A key feature is its auto-resetting nature, which makes it practical for performing multiple times in a row. The method is unique and does not rely on traditional memorization techniques or complex sleight of hand. Thomas Badar spent ten years developing this routine, which he has used in his live shows and television appearances. The trick is available in different deck colors, such as blue and red.

Who should consider the trick

Lumino is suitable for magicians who perform close-up or parlor magic. It appeals to those looking for a high-impact visual effect that simulates a superhuman mental feat. Performers who want a reputation-building piece of magic that leaves a strong impression on audiences will find it compelling. It is also a good choice for magicians who prefer effects with minimal sleight-of-hand requirements. The trick's modern, tech-inspired aesthetic makes it a fit for performers who like contemporary magic.

Information on how difficult it is to perform

The method for Lumino is designed to be accessible. According to Murphy's Magic, the routine can be mastered with approximately 20 to 30 minutes of practice. The effect bypasses the need for traditional card memorization or advanced sleight-of-hand skills. This allows the performer to focus on presentation. The auto-reset feature also simplifies repeated performances.

What magicians say

Magicians have shared positive opinions about Lumino. The trick sold out at the Blackpool Magic Convention 2025, indicating high demand. Alex Kirk from Monster Magic described Lumino as "clever and practical magic." A reviewer from Alakazam Magic noted its "modern, tech-inspired aesthetic" and suitability for low-light environments. Penguin Magic included it in their top ten recommended tricks, presenting it as "one of the strongest memorization effects available." Murphy's Magic emphasized its impact, stating it is "marketed as a reputation-building piece of magic." Fiddlin Johnny mentioned it was a hot product at the convention, showcasing its innovative effect.

What people are saying about Lumino

AlakazamMagicUK says...

Lumino features a rechargeable LED device for color-changing effects, appealing to magicians looking to incorporate a contemporary, visual piece into their sets, especially in low-light environments.

fiddlinjonny says...

Hot products at the convention included the Atomic Deck and Lumino, showcasing innovative magic effects that highlight the energy and creativity of the magic community.

monstermagicshop says...

Lumino by Thomas Badar is highlighted as a clever and practical piece of magic that stands out for its visual impact and fooling power in performances.

MurphysMagicSupplies says...

Lumino is auto-resetting, making it highly practical for repeated performances, and it can be mastered with just 20-30 minutes of practice, making it accessible to magicians of various experience levels.

penguinmagicshop says...

Lumino is presented as one of the strongest memorization effects available, allowing the performer to memorize an entire deck of cards in moments for a reputation-building routine.

SaturnMagicShop says...

Lumino is a visually striking piece of magical apparatus, likely centered around luminous or glow-in-the-dark effects, fitting Thomas Badar's creative tradition for visually engaging magic.